Definition

A woman who is very attractive and often uses her charm to attract or seduce others.

Example

The story featured a temptress who captivated the hearts of many men.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new character in the movie?

Yeah, she’s quite the temptress in the story!

I wonder how they’ll portray her in the film.

It’ll be interesting to see if they make her more complex than just a temptress.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Temptress → It is formed from "tempt" (from Latin "temptare", meaning to test or try) and the suffix "-ess" (used to denote a female). The word "temptress" refers to a woman who entices or seduces, often in a way that tests someone's resolve or morals.

Memory Tip

Think of a woman who 'tests' ('temptare') others' willpower or morals — that's why a temptress is someone who entices or seduces.

Visually Confused Words